Your Ultimate Guide
to Entertaining
Planning a party can be just as much fun as
attending one. Find fast, foolproof, and
surprising ideas for hosting at home.
- Entertaining New Uses
- 17 Quick Party Appetizers
- 26 Great Table Settings
- What’s Your Entertaining Style?
- Easy Party Appetizers and CocktailsFrom our Sponsor Macy's
- Laid-Back Party PlannerFrom our Sponsor Macy's
Party Ideas, Décor, and More
5 Hollywood–Inspired Party Themes
Whether you're hosting an Oscar bash or simply looking for a unique party theme, these fun and festive ideas are perfect for
celebrating just about anything, anytime.
Fresh Ways to Dress Up a Table
Sixteen ideas that add unexpected fun and color.
4 Decorative Napkin Folding Ideas
You don't have to be an origami master to make a linen napkin feel extra special.
Easy Apps and Recipe Ideas
6 Make-Ahead Appetizers
Easy finger foods to keep your guests satisfied—not to mention occupied—before the main event.
10 Best Store-Bought Party Appetizers
Are your guests feeling peckish? Silence the squawking with these store-bought snacks—Real Simple’s favorites from more than 150 sampled.
Favorite Appetizer Recipes
Tried-and-true party recipes.
Signature Drinks and Party Punches
10 Tasty Holiday Cocktails
Playing bartender has never been easier. You can whip up a batch of these spirited drinks in two shakes.
Best Punch Recipes
Hosting a big party? These cheerful drink recipes all serve 10 or more—no bartender required.
9 Hot Drinks for Winter
Cozy up with these delicious cold-weather beverages.
Entertaining Checklists
Dinner Party Checklist
This step-by-step plan will ensure that you, too, will be able to sit down at your next dinner party.
Day-Before Dinner Preparation Checklist
Prep these ingredients up to a day in advance to avoid the pre-dinner rush.
Entertaining Videos
How To: Make a Martini
The martini is perhaps the classic cocktail―and making one is probably simpler than you think. Just follow the quick steps
in this video.
How To: Fan-Fold a Cloth Napkin
Give even the easiest dinner party a touch of elegance with beautifully folded napkins. Find the simple steps―and a video
to guide you.
How To: Make a Cosmopolitan
Every good hostess should master one great cocktail recipe, and tasty cosmopolitans are always impressive crowd-pleasers.
Follow the quick technique shown in this video and your guests will be raising a glass to you in no time.
Entertaining Tools
How to Stock a Party-Worthy Cocktail Bar
Entertaining expert A.J. Rathbun picks the liquors and mixers to splurge (or save) on.
Wedding Flower Finder
Use this tool to discover which flowers are available during your wedding season.
Hot Topic
Smart Product: Built NY Picnic Bag Available for Pre-Order
I don’t normally like to feature items that aren’t available immediately, but I love this new picnic tote from Built NY too much to wait. It looks just like a regular tote, doesn’t it? But…it unfolds... more
